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Apurva Ekadashi

Apurva Ekadashi is observed on the eleventh lunar day of the dark fortnight (Jyeshta Krishna Paksha Ekadashi tithi) in the month of Jyeshta (May – June).  Ekadashi is the day dedicated to the worship of Bhagavan Srihari Vishnu and is the most sacred day in the entire fortnight for a Vaishnava devotee. On this particular Ekadashi, Bhagavan Vishnu is worshipped in his Trivikrama form. This form represents this fifth avatar of Bhagavan Vishnu and is popularly known as Vamana Avatar. Apurva Ekadashi 2013 date is May 15.

Apurva Ekadashi starts with sunrise. The devout get ready before sunrise and devotedly worship Bhagavan Vishnu by singing bhajanas (devotional songs) and chanting Vishnu Sahasranama (thousand names of Vishnu). On this day rice-eating is considered taboo. He who consumes rice in any form on any Ekadashi goes to Raurava Naraka – so declares Vishnu Purana.

On this day, Panchamrita (an elixir containing five ingredients) is prepared by mixing milk, ghee (clarified butter), curds, honey and sugar and is then offered to the image of Bhagavan Vishnu or poured over the holy stone, Shaligrama. The deity is adorned with rich garments, ornaments and jewels, and a fan is placed beside it. Then, concentrating on the murti of Bhagavan Vishnu, the prayers are said.

Observance of Apoorva Ekadashi also ensures freedom from evil spirits, ghosts, goblins, etc. The reward is only happiness, affluence, and prosperity but also getting a place in Vaikunta. After the completion of the vow, clothes, grains, umbrellas, fans, pitchers filled with clear water, etc., are given to poor people.